Write What Inspires You! ~ Donna M. McDine

Dee and Deb Off They Kindergarten First Day Jitters Make New Friends at LightClub Curiosity Shoppe, Warwick, NY

noreply@blogger.com (Donna McDine) — Sun, 26 Oct 2025 14:43:00 +0000

Thrilled and over the moon excited that Dee and Deb Off They Go Kindergarten First Day Jitters continue to make new friends wherever they go. Today they connected with their newest young reader at the LightClub Curiosity Shoppe, Warwick, NY!

Visit today and explore the children's section and select a self-care item for yourself within the LightClub Curiosity Shoppe. So much to choose from and enjoy the glorious calming energy!

Best wishes,

Donna M. McDine

Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Angel's Forever Home ~ March 2019 ~ Mascot Books ~ 2019 Purple Dragonfly Honorable Mention Picture Books Six and Older

Dee and Deb Off They Go Kindergarten First Day Jitters ~ December 2015 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2016 Purple Dragonfly Honorable Mention Picture Books Five and Under and Story Monster Approved

A Sandy Grave ~ January 2014 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2014 Purple Dragonfly 1st Place Picture Books 6+, Story Monster Approved, Beach Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014 and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Honorable Mention Picture Books 6+, New England Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

The Golden Pathway ~ August 2010 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ Literary Classics Silver Award and Seal of Approval, Readers Favorite 2012 International Book Awards Honorable Mention and Dan Poynter's Global e-Book Awards Finalist

Dee and Deb Off They Go Kindergarten First Day Jitters are off to Spain!

noreply@blogger.com (Donna McDine) — Wed, 28 Aug 2024 11:08:00 +0000

Dee and Deb of children's book Dee and Deb Off They Go Kindergarten First Day Jitters are thrilled to share they are off to Spain with kindergarten teacher, Miss Christina! They are so excited to meet Miss Christina's kindergarten class and can't wait to share pictures of their visit. In the meantime, checkout all the other places Dee and Deb have visited...

Interested in staying connected beyond the Internet? Please feel free to opt-in to my Write What Inspires You Newsletter! I promise not to fill your email inbox, for I send out my emails no more than 1-2 times per month.

Opt-in today to the Write What Inspires You! Newsletter and join parents, teachers, and colleagues who receive Donna’s newsletter and receive two FREE e-Books: “The Story Behind the Books” and “Marketing Tips”

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Best wishes,

Donna M. McDine

Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Angel's Forever Home ~ March 2019 ~ Mascot Books ~ 2019 Purple Dragonfly Honorable Mention Picture Books Six and Older

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Ease your child into Kindergarten with Dee and Deb Off They Go Kindergarten First Day Jitters

noreply@blogger.com (Donna McDine) — Sun, 25 Aug 2024 13:33:00 +0000

The 2024-2025 school year is upon us! Wow!

Do you have a new kindergartener in your life and you'd like to ease them into kindergarten?

Look no further... Dee and Deb are here to help!

The anxiety of finding one's own place and friends in kindergarten without the comfort of having her fraternal twin sister nearby at first overwhelms Dee until she realizes even without her fraternal twin sister, Dee and her classmates for the most part are in the same boat.

Order you softcover or e-book copy today at:

www.donnamcdine.com/books.html

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Best wishes,

Donna M. McDine

Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Angel's Forever Home ~ March 2019 ~ Mascot Books ~ 2019 Purple Dragonfly Honorable Mention Picture Books Six and Older

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Marketing Tips Monday with Donna McDine - Virtual Author Visits

noreply@blogger.com (Donna McDine) — Mon, 05 Aug 2024 16:08:00 +0000

One of the most beneficial ways of connecting with children through your books is connecting with parents and teachers

Create your announcement of offering 15-20 minute complimentary meet the author virtual sessions and watch your engagements soar.

Igniting the passion of reading in young children has long been a passion of mine and continues to this day.

For those parents and teachers reading my message, if you are interested in connecting together via Zoom so your child(ren) / students may ask their author questions, leave a message here or contact me via email at donna@donnamcdine.com

I look forward to hearing from you!

For now enjoy reading with your child(ren) / students!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Best wishes,

Donna M. McDine

Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Angel's Forever Home ~ March 2019 ~ Mascot Books ~ 2019 Purple Dragonfly Honorable Mention Picture Books Six and Older

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Donna McDine's Books Available at Bunbury's Books, Piermont, NY

noreply@blogger.com (Donna McDine) — Mon, 29 Jul 2024 10:52:00 +0000

Happy marvelous Monday! I'm delighted to share that two of my children's books Angel's Forever Home (co-written with Rita and Bobbie Gigante) and Dee and Deb Off They Go Kindergarten First Day Jitters are available at the Bunbury's Books located at the Bunbury's Coffee and Tea Shop, 460 Piermont Avenue, Piermont, NY

About Bunbury Books: Debra L. Piros... Debra continues to pursue a lifelong dream of solidifying her thoughts onto paper and into the hands of young at heart readers. Debra is a Yoga & Meditation teacher who presently owns Bunbury's Coffee and Tea Shop in the Lower Hudson Valley. By way of words and images, Debra conveys that peace begins within, an she strives to share her knowledge and intuitive insights to spark others.

Stop in for a spell and browse the numerous books available and while you are there treat yourself to a scrumptious treat and tea or coffee of your liking.

Wishing you a delightful time of immersing yourself in your next great read!

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Best wishes,

Donna M. McDine

Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Angel's Forever Home ~ March 2019 ~ Mascot Books ~ 2019 Purple Dragonfly Honorable Mention Picture Books Six and Older

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Inspiration through Reading by Donna McDine

noreply@blogger.com (Donna McDine) — Thu, 18 Jul 2024 11:33:00 +0000

Inspiration through Reading

by Donna McDine

Dear Spirit and Universe, it's been a long time since I've been consistent with my blogging and I'm over the moon to be reinspired to blog/write once again. I have had the privilege to participate in several of Coleen Paratore's writing workshops and along with reading her and mom's (Peg Spain Murtagh) book, Writing it Right, I am truly reinspired to let me writing flow.

I am soaking up their beautiful and heartfelt writing and I'm already on page 125 in two short days of reading. The quote from Peg Spain Murtagh resonated with me deeply and continues to do so, "It's a simple concept, either you win or lose. You grow the gift or you throw the gift away." This is truly an ah-ha moment for me that I will no longer let my writing to take the back shelf and fill with dust. As I am writing these words I feel an exhilaration and goosebumps down my arms. Now is my time to step forth and not allow my inner naysayer or the negative words of others to stop me in my tracks.

For as long as I can remember I have never felt worthy or heard. A times I feel I have successfully slayed the negative words of former teachers, guidance counselors, and others because I did not excel academically and other times not so much. Maybe at the time those individuals felt like they were being helpful and they were caught up in their own construed perceptions they didn't comprehend the negativity of those words. For me now, I forgive that as at any given time we do the best we can with the tools we were taught or given at that time. I now forever release that to the universe for transmutation.

With six published children's books published and 100 plus magazine articles to my credit, I embrace each published book and article with deep gratitude. I have shelved my writing career for way too long and I innately know I have a true flair and gift for the written word and will continue to move forward. I gleefully jump down from the shelf and wipe the dust bunnies off and pick up my favorite Graf von Faber-Castell pen and write with abandon! At 57 years old it is not too late to bring forth my voice through writing and finally allow my self to be heard in all the positive ways the written word can do.

Thank you to beautiful creation of Write it Right by Coleen Paratore and Peg Spain Murtagh for sharing your sharing your deepest thoughts and lifting me up with each turn of the page. I am filled with deep gratitude, love, and joy!

As an added noted, when I journal or begin a writing session I make note of the time I begin. For this writing piece I began at 5:54 am and the angel number correlating to 554 is:

"There is a fine line between effort and effortlessness. Your angels are inviting you to trust them and their ability to help you believe."

Wow, Wow, Wow! How inspiring is that. It directly correlates to my journal entry.

My wish for those taking the time out to visit and read my blog post, may the words of others inspire you as well.

I'd enjoy hearing about what inspires you.

Until next time, be safe and well!

Namaste,

Donna McDine

Award-winning children's author & Reiki Master Teacher

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Best wishes,

Donna M. McDine

Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Angel's Forever Home ~ March 2019 ~ Mascot Books ~ 2019 Purple Dragonfly Honorable Mention Picture Books Six and Older

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Transformative Journey Leading to Healing: Heal to Lead by Kelly Campbell

noreply@blogger.com (Donna McDine) — Tue, 14 May 2024 11:06:00 +0000

I primarily read and review children's books and I'm stepping outside of the usual to share with you an incredible read...

Heal to Lead: Revolutionizing Leadership through Trauma Healing

by Kelly L. Campbell

Transformative Journey Leading to Healing

From the onset I was immersed into the author’s writing style and openness to her own healing journey. As I dived deep into the question prompts a realization like none other flowed forth of what has occurred in my life and how I need and now are moving forward to my own healing. And coupled with the approach of the realization that all who we encounter are on their own personal journey of healing, business and personal conversations have taken a much deeper level. Heal to Lead: Revolutionizing Leadership through Trauma Healing is a must read for not only leaders, but for all humans.

View all my reviews

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Best wishes,

Donna M. McDine

Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Angel's Forever Home ~ March 2019 ~ Mascot Books ~ 2019 Purple Dragonfly Honorable Mention Picture Books Six and Older

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Children's Book Profile:The Incredible Adventures of Timmy, Molly, & Jack and the Space-Travelling Microwave by David Wade

noreply@blogger.com (Donna McDine) — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 11:07:00 +0000

Title: The Incredible Adventures of Timmy, Molly, & Jack and the Space-Travelling Microwave

ASIN: ‎ B0BRLVQ5GH

Publisher: ‎ Independently published (December 26, 2022)

Language: ‎ English

Paperback: ‎ 72 pages

ISBN-13: ‎ 979-8371342119

Reading age: ‎ 7 - 11 years

Synopsis:

The Space-Travelling Microwave is the first exciting adventure in The Incredible Adventures of Timmy, Molly, & Jack series for children aged 7-10. Follow Timmy, Molly, and Jack to the depths of the known universe and beyond. Encountering weird and wonderful aliens and strange new worlds. Will they make it back in time for school? You'll have to find out.

When Timmy’s eccentric next-door neighbour asks him to see his latest and most ground-breaking scientific invention, Timmy fears the worst. It’s not like Jack’s previous inventions have been any good. Most blew up the moment they were switched on.

So when Jack presented an old microwave with a lightbulb sticking out the top, Timmy was sure he had finally gone mad. But to his surprise, this was no ordinary microwave. It was a teleportation machine that transported millions of light-years throughout the universe in a split second.

Join Timmy, along with his school friend Molly, and Jack for a trip across the stars, to strange and wonderful new worlds.

Amazon link

Learn more about David Wade...

Website

Amazon Author Profile

Instagram and X (formerly Twitter):

@_davidwade

Book Reviews

"I bought this book for my niece's birthday last week and she loved it that much it’s all she’s talking about to her friends."

"Really fab debut book from David Wade. Exciting, funny, full of imagination with an easy to follow story full of enjoyable twists and turns. Perfect for young readers, though plenty for grown-ups to enjoy too. Also, Molly is a scene stealer! (you’ll see) 5 stars."

"A great story, my kids loved it. They cannot wait for the next adventure. Highly recommend."

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Best wishes,

Donna M. McDine

Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Angel's Forever Home ~ March 2019 ~ Mascot Books ~ 2019 Purple Dragonfly Honorable Mention Picture Books Six and Older

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Children's Picture Book Signing Angel's Forever Home at LightClub Curiosity Shoppe April 27, 2024 at 2-4 pm

noreply@blogger.com (Donna McDine) — Tue, 02 Apr 2024 21:08:00 +0000

Book Signing & Storytelling Event

Angel's Forever Home

by Rita Gigante and Donna McDine

Saturday, April 27th
2:00 - 4:00 PM

LightClub Curiosity Warwick Shoppe
40 Main St., Warwick, NY

Join us for an enchanting afternoon as we celebrate the heartwarming tale of "Angel's Forever Home" with a special book signing event. Immerse yourself in the magic of the story and explore themes of love, friendship, and the unbreakable bond between animals and humans.

Event Highlights:

Book Trailer Viewing: Experience the beauty of "Angel's Forever Home" come to life as we showcase the book trailer, offering a glimpse into the world of Angel and her extraordinary journey.

Reading Excerpts: Delight in the captivating words of the book as we read select excerpts that will transport you to Angel's world and capture your imagination.

Discussion on Animal Mediumship: Engage in a thought-provoking discussion about animal mediumship and the fascinating realm of mediumship in general, specially tailored for our younger audience members. Explore the idea of communication beyond the physical realm and the profound connections we share with our animal companions.

Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the magic of "Angel's Forever Home" and connect with fellow animal lovers!

Copies of the book will be available for purchase. Giveaways and refreshments will be served.

Make a day of it. Shop at the LightClub Curiosity Shoppe, have lunch at one of the local restaurants, and shop the unique Main Street locations.

We look forward to seeing you!

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Best wishes,

Donna M. McDine

Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Angel's Forever Home ~ March 2019 ~ Mascot Books ~ 2019 Purple Dragonfly Honorable Mention Picture Books Six and Older

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Word by Word Journaling to an Authentic Life from A-Z Program with Reiki Master Teacher & Award-winning Children's Author, Donna McDine

noreply@blogger.com (Donna McDine) — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 09:55:00 +0000

Welcome to Word by Word Journaling to an Authentic Life from A-Z! As a dedicated reiki therapist, I am thrilled to offer a unique and transformative experience for those seeking to connect with their true selves. Through this journaling service, we will explore every letter of the alphabet, delving deep into your emotions, goals, and desires. Together, we will unlock your full potential and guide you on a journey towards living authentically and joyfully. Embrace this opportunity to discover your innermost truths and create the life you've always dreamed of. The adventure will start off with a welcome Zoom call Wednesday, May 29 @ 5:55 pm to share my own experience that brought me to journaling and the profound effects it has had on my life. Participants will then each have the opportunity to share their own personal journey. Then each day for 26-days you will receive the journaling prompt of the day via email starting off with the letter A and you got it ending on the 26th day with the letter Z. Weekly check-in: Every Wednesday, at 5:55 pm we will join together via Zoom as a group to share our journaling experiences and to ask your questions: June 5th, June 12th, and June 19th We will then wrap-up via Zoom on Wednesday, June 26th @ 5:55 pm to share your journaling experience. Upon conclusion of the program each participant will receive a thank you gift which will include a printed version of the Word by Word Journaling to An Authentic Life from A-Z journal and a special surprise. Cost: $111 Sound intriguing? Register today!

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Best wishes,

Donna M. McDine

Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Angel's Forever Home ~ March 2019 ~ Mascot Books ~ 2019 Purple Dragonfly Honorable Mention Picture Books Six and Older

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Last Minute Children's Books Ideas for Easter Baskets at LightClub Curiosity Shoppe

noreply@blogger.com (Donna McDine) — Sat, 30 Mar 2024 11:57:00 +0000

Looking for a unique children's book to add to your young muses Easter Basket? Look no further, stop in at the LightClub Curiosity Shoppe at 40 Main Street, Warick, NY. And while you are there treat yourself to one of the many metaphysical gifts for yourself. The inventory is immense and there is something for everyone!

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Best wishes,

Donna M. McDine

Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Angel's Forever Home ~ March 2019 ~ Mascot Books ~ 2019 Purple Dragonfly Honorable Mention Picture Books Six and Older

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Canvas Rebel Interviews Reiki Master Teacher, Donna McDine

noreply@blogger.com (Donna McDine) — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 20:38:00 +0000

I'm over the moon for the second time this week!

I'm tickled pink to announce my interview by David Tan of Canvas Rebel Magazine. It was and continues to be a pure delight to connect with David in such an intimate interview, as I don't typically like to share too much about myself. I'm much better at getting to know others rather the other way around.

Special thanks goes to my metaphysical mentor, Melissa Paone Somma of the LightClub Curiosity Shoppe (Sugar Loaf and Warwick, NY) for introduction.

Full interview at Canvas Rebel.

#CanvasRebel #EnergyofSerenity #DavidTan #MelissaPaoneSomma #LightClubCuriosityShoppe #Metaphysical #ReikiInterview

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Best wishes,

Donna M. McDine

Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Angel's Forever Home ~ March 2019 ~ Mascot Books ~ 2019 Purple Dragonfly Honorable Mention Picture Books Six and Older

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

MysticMag Interviews Reiki Master Teacher, Donna McDine

noreply@blogger.com (Donna McDine) — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 12:00:00 +0000

I am over the moon excited to share with you my interview by Predrag Vlatkovic of MysticMag!

I so enjoyed our time together and sharing about my journey and what a client or student can expect with Reiki services and classes at Energy of Serenity.

Hope you enjoy it as much as I did and continue to do so. A true pleasure and honor.

#DonnaMcDine, #EnergyHealing, #EnergyofSerenity, #Interview, #Learn Reiki, #MysticMag, #PredragVlatkovic, #Reiki, #ReikiHealing

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Best wishes,

Donna M. McDine

Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Angel's Forever Home ~ March 2019 ~ Mascot Books ~ 2019 Purple Dragonfly Honorable Mention Picture Books Six and Older

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Award-winning Children's Author, Donna McDine

noreply@blogger.com (Donna McDine) — Sat, 23 Dec 2023 15:10:00 +0000

🎄🌟🎁 Dear Friends,

I hope this email finds you surrounded by warmth, love, and holiday cheer! 🎉🎅✨ As we approach the end of this extraordinary year, I wanted to take a moment to extend my heartfelt wishes to you and your family for a truly blessed holiday season and a Happy New Year! 🌟🎉

Looking back on the past year, I am filled with gratitude for the genuine connection we share. 😊🙏 Your presence in my life has been a constant source of inspiration and joy, and I am truly grateful for our special bond. 💛🤗 I cherish the moments we have spent together and I am thrilled to continue building cherished memories in the coming years.

As we embark on a brand new chapter filled with hopes and dreams, let us carry the light of hope, positivity, and resilience in our hearts. ✨🌈 Together, we can conquer any challenges and embrace the countless opportunities that lie ahead. 🙌💪

May the holiday season bring you an abundance of love, laughter, and precious moments with your loved ones. 🎁🎄🎅 As we bid farewell to the old and welcome the new, may 2024 shower you with health, happiness, and success in every endeavor. 🌟🌠

I am grateful beyond words for your presence in my life, and I look forward to nurturing our friendship in the coming year. ✉️❤️

Wishing you a holiday season filled with love, laughter, and joyful celebrations!

Namaste,

Donna

Award-winning Children's Author & Reiki Master Teacher 🌺🌟

Angel's Forever Home ~ March 2019 ~ Mascot Books ~ 2019 Purple Dragonfly Honorable Mention Picture Books Six and Older

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Children's Book Holiday Sale - Award-winning Children's Author Donna McDine

noreply@blogger.com (Donna McDine) — Mon, 04 Dec 2023 20:33:00 +0000

Holiday Sale Announcement!

All my children's books except Hockey Agony (Sold Out)

are on sale from now until December 21st...

Any book (Soft or Hard cover) is $5 except for Angel's Forever Home ($10)!

Visit www.donnamcdine.com/books.html today

to order your personalized and autographed book(s) for the child in your life!

You can also Venmo me your payment & order details at

@Donna-McDine

Order today!

#holidaysale
#childrensbooks
#donnamcdine

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Best wishes,

Donna M. McDine

Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Angel's Forever Home ~ March 2019 ~ Mascot Books ~ 2019 Purple Dragonfly Honorable Mention Picture Books Six and Older

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Hockey Agony ~ January 2013 ~ SOLD OUT ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Honorable Mention Picture Books 6+, New England Book Festival Honorable Mention 2014, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Rhyming Picture Book Review: All About Bears by John Ross

noreply@blogger.com (Donna McDine) — Mon, 04 Dec 2023 16:11:00 +0000

Title: All About Bears

Written by: John Ross

Illustrated by: Imasha Chethani

Publisher: John Ross Peterson

Pages: 47

ASIN: B09VMYNSGB

Publication date: March 15, 2022

Picture Book Review – by Donna M. McDine

Emmy-winning television producer, writer, and composer has penned a beautiful informative rhyming picture book, All About Bears. Take your young muse on an exploring adventure of the many types of bears throughout the world and their geographical habitats. Learning is now just for the young, but all that endear to instill the love of reading and environmental conservation near and far. Bravo to John for creating this exhilarating picture book and to Imasha Chethani for the whimsical illustrations.

Amazon link for All About Bears by John Ross

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Best wishes,

Donna M. McDine

Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Angel's Forever Home ~ March 2019 ~ Mascot Books ~ 2019 Purple Dragonfly Honorable Mention Picture Books Six and Older

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Children's Picture Book Review: Diwali in My New Home by

noreply@blogger.com (Donna McDine) — Mon, 27 Nov 2023 15:10:00 +0000

Title: Diwali In My New Home

Written by: Shachi Kaushik

Illustrated by: Aishwarya Tandon

Publisher: Beaming Books (September 27, 2022)

Hardcover: 32 pages

ISBN-10: 1506484077

ISBN-13: 978-1506484075

Reading age: 4 - 8 years

Grade level: 1 - 2

Picture Book Review – by Donna M. McDine

Priya has moved with her family from India and longs for the colorful and joyful days of celebrating Diwali. The customs she so cherishes remain in her heart and the desire to celebrate in her new home thousands of miles away from all that she has ever known. Her parents, knowing the importance of not forgetting their beautiful customs, prepare their new home just the way they always did in India. And by doing so it naturally gathers the neighbors in their curiosity of learning about Diwali. The heartwarming connection through the Diwali customs will have the reader's heart soaring. Accompanied with a glossary and Diwali history is an added bonus! Personally, while I am a Roman Catholic, I enjoyed how the deity, Lakshmi, was brought into the history as well as the deities Ganesha, Rama, Sita, and Lakshman. as I have a statue of Lakshimi in my home and often pray to her. The illustrations by Aishwarya Tandon will warm your heart and have you smiling throughout the story of young, Priya.

Visit Shachi Kaushik at www.storiesbyshachi.com

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Best wishes,

Donna M. McDine

Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Angel's Forever Home ~ March 2019 ~ Mascot Books ~ 2019 Purple Dragonfly Honorable Mention Picture Books Six and Older

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Young Adult Novel Book Review - Rattlesnake by C. Lee McKenzie

noreply@blogger.com (Donna McDine) — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 10:55:00 +0000

Title: Rattlesnake

Written by: C. Lee McKenzie

Ages: Young Adult

ASIN: B0CNJLNKHV

Publisher: ‎ Evernight Teen

Publication date: ‎ December 8, 2023

Young Adult Book Review – by Donna M. McDine

From the onset immerse yourself and feel your emotions ebb and flow as you become fully invested in the characters of C. Lee McKenzie’s Young Adult Novel, Rattlesnake. Bad luck follows the Guthrie family from New Hampshire to Nevada, to all places named Rattlesnake. If that isn’t enough to get your skin crawling, how can they possibly call their inheritance of the shambled home and an old abandoned mine be where they will start anew. The very presence of Aunt Margaret, Jonah, and Allie is not welcomed by the townsfolk and how will Jonah come to terms of their new location, the unexplained anger toward them, and the unexpected visitor, Catherine, from 100 years ago. The rollercoaster ride of how all the lives are intertwined and how each can help one another will have you rooting for each and every character, even the town bully, Snake.

Visit C. Lee McKenzie at: https://cleemckenziebooks.com

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Best wishes,

Donna M. McDine

Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Angel's Forever Home ~ March 2019 ~ Mascot Books ~ 2019 Purple Dragonfly Honorable Mention Picture Books Six and Older

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Query Tracker - Fabulous Tool for Writers in Submitting Manuscripts to Publishers and Agents

noreply@blogger.com (Donna McDine) — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Looking for an easy way to keep your queries organized and all in one place? Look no further Query Tracker is a wonderful tool not only for submitting your queries to publishers and agents, it's also valuable in researching publishers and agents.

Description: Query Tracker uses an easy icon system to help you keep track of your queries. Each agent you query is assigned an icon that represents the state of that query. For instance, a green happy face means you received a positive reply from the publisher or agent. And a red sad face means it was a negative reply.

Wishing you much success in connecting with a publisher and/or agent!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Best wishes,

Donna M. McDine

Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Angel's Forever Home ~ March 2019 ~ Mascot Books ~ 2019 Purple Dragonfly Honorable Mention Picture Books Six and Older

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

The Story Behind the Book: Dee and Deb Off They Go Kindergarten First Day Jitters

noreply@blogger.com (Donna McDine) — Tue, 15 Aug 2023 11:09:00 +0000

I'm pleased to re-introduce the story behind the book... Dee and Deb Off They Go Kindergarten First Day Jitters and their delightful video as to where they have been.

The inspiration is a tribute to my endearing bond with my fraternal twin sister, Deb. The story is a true account as to how we were separated for the first time in kindergarten. For back then, pre-school was not a class type that was available. I cannot imagine navigating these past 55 plus years without Deb and our bond continues whether the adventures are together or apartment. Love you immensely, Deb!

Dee and Deb's Adventure Video:

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Best wishes,

Donna M. McDine

Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Angel's Forever Home ~ March 2019 ~ Mascot Books ~ 2019 Purple Dragonfly Honorable Mention Picture Books Six and Older

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Back to School Book: Dee and Deb Off They Go Kindergarten First Day Jitters

noreply@blogger.com (Donna McDine) — Mon, 07 Aug 2023 17:38:00 +0000

It's hard to believe it's that time of the year again! Summer is quickly coming to an end with only a few short weeks to go for the first day of school to be upon us.

If you have a young muse in your life that is embarking on their first day of kindergarten, let Dee and Deb calm their nerves as they share their first day of kindergarten adventure and how making new friends is so much fun!

Synopsis & order details at my website, where you can request a personalized and autograph copy.

Next up, I will be sharing the inspiration behind Dee and Deb Off They Go Kindergarten First Day Jitters

Thank you for your time and interest!

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Best wishes,

Donna M. McDine

Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Angel's Forever Home ~ March 2019 ~ Mascot Books ~ 2019 Purple Dragonfly Honorable Mention Picture Books Six and Older

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Donna McDine, Award-winning children's Author is Back from Blogging Hiatus

noreply@blogger.com (Donna McDine) — Sun, 30 Jul 2023 18:39:00 +0000

I am back from my blogging hiatus and my intention is to blog weekly with various happenings in the children's book industry and my own writing career.

I am delighted to share I am in the midst of submitting my collaboration with Jimmy Floyd for our children's picture book manuscript using the tool Query Tracker. If you aren't familiar with Query Tracking I am going to be posting about my experience and benefits of using this wonderful tool.

Until then, I invite you to subscribe to my Write What Inspires You Newsletter...

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Best wishes,

Donna M. McDine

Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Angel's Forever Home ~ March 2019 ~ Mascot Books ~ 2019 Purple Dragonfly Honorable Mention Picture Books Six and Older

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from Award-winning children's author, Donna McDine

noreply@blogger.com (Donna McDine) — Fri, 23 Dec 2022 19:48:00 +0000

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Before the hustle bustle of the next two weekends commence, I wanted to connect with you today to wish you a blessed holiday season and happy 2023!

As you know from my previous posts my diagnosis of polycythemia vera threw me for a loop and I'm happy to share my blood work continues to stay at normal levels. The doctors and I continue to be very pleased. Can you see me doing my Snoopy Happy Dance?

My ask to you all today, is to embrace life to the fullest, have fun, don't allow disagreements to fester, and to love ones self and those you are connected deeply and joyfully.

I'd enjoy hearing what your holiday plans are and your 2023 intentions. Email me today!

For me my 2023 intentions are to stay connected with my friends and family, my writing critique partners and Reiki clients and students. I am thrilled to continue my focus on submitting my picture book manuscript to publishers and agents as well as my edits to my middle grade manuscript.

Until we next connect, stay well, safe, and most of all be kind to yourself!

Namaste,

Donna

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Best wishes,

Donna M. McDine

Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Angel's Forever Home ~ March 2019 ~ Mascot Books ~ 2019 Purple Dragonfly Honorable Mention Picture Books Six and Older

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

Happy Thanksgiving with Gratitude from Award-winning Children's Author, Donna McDine

noreply@blogger.com (Donna McDine) — Wed, 23 Nov 2022 14:36:00 +0000

Happy Thanksgiving with Gratitude...

Incredibly so how quickly 2022 is moving along!

I'm popping in today to wish you and your families a Blessed Thanksgiving!

May the day bring a true opportunity to pause and reflect of all the blessings you have. And to also take the time to release what is no longer serving you.

For me I take (as well as my husband) great joy in the fact that our adult children, Nicole (27) and Hayley (24) enjoy coming home and spending time with us. As an added bonus their boyfriends and their closest friends often join in gathering together. My list is endless with the gratitudes I have daily which always include the endearing and loving support of my husband, daughters, extended family and friends, our home, health, food on the table, my supportive day-job bosses, and true authentic connections.

I've been releasing from my mind the lingering thoughts of my polycythemia vera diagnosis and not allowing it to be the forefront of my mind. Changing my diet, extra hydration, instilling more down time without guilt, truly listening to my body, and not dwelling on the what if's have been a game changer. It's certainly a work in progress where my daily practice of self-Reiki, meditation, and journaling calm the sneaky racing thoughts.

I'd enjoy hearing what your Thanksgivings plans are, what you are grateful for, and what you would like to release. Email me today!

Until we next connect, stay well, safe, and most of all be kind to yourself!

Blessings,

Donna

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Best wishes,

Donna M. McDine

Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Angel's Forever Home ~ March 2019 ~ Mascot Books ~ 2019 Purple Dragonfly Honorable Mention Picture Books Six and Older

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review

A Twitter Pitch Party Exclusively for Picture Books

noreply@blogger.com (Donna McDine) — Mon, 24 Oct 2022 11:34:00 +0000

A Twitter Pitch Party Exclusively for Picture Books!

#PBPitch

Don't miss out on the opportunity to pitch your picture book

What: Unagented writers pitch their picture book manuscripts on Twitter.

Why: Agents and Editors on Twitter can see it!

When: the next #PBPitch: Thursday, October 27, 2022 from 8 am to 8 pm EST.

Rules: Pitch your picture books on Twitter using #PBPitch. Pitch manuscripts only once in the morning and once in the evening (once before 2 pm EST and once once after).

Include subgenre # if it applies:

#NF = Nonfiction

#C = Concept

#L = Lyrical

#I - Interactive

You can pitch multiple picture books, but only pitch each one twice.

*Only agents and editors should HEART a pitch. If they do, check their submission guidelines (and do your research) before submitting to them.

Good luck!

Tips for Twitter Pitch

#PBPitch

#TwitterPitch

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Best wishes,

Donna M. McDine

Multi Award-winning Children's Author

Ignite curiosity in your child through reading!

Angel's Forever Home ~ March 2019 ~ Mascot Books ~ 2019 Purple Dragonfly Honorable Mention Picture Books Six and Older

Powder Monkey ~ May 2013 ~ Guardian Angel Publishing, Inc. ~ 2015 Purple Dragonfly Book Award Historical Fiction 1st Place, Story Monster Approved and Reader's Favorite Five Star Review